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Law Quote by Joseph Befumo

“Plunder by force or subterfuge is called theft, larceny, burglary, swindling. Plunder under color of law can take the form of ‘economic regulation’, ‘too big to fail’, ‘corporate subsidies’, bail-outs, tax exemptions, and a plethora of other noble-sounding, but ultimately self-serving programs.” quote by Joseph Befumo
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““Plunder by force or subterfuge is called theft, larceny, burglary, swindling. Plunder under color of law can take the form of ‘economic regulation’, ‘too big to fail’, ‘corporate subsidies’, bail-outs, tax exemptions, and a plethora of other noble-sounding, but ultimately self-serving programs.””

Joseph Befumo

About This Quote

Source Article: Economic critique, 2020

State-sanctioned actions that appear beneficial often serve private interests under the guise of regulation.

In simple terms: Government policies can hide self‑interest.

Key Takeaway

Scrutinize policies for hidden motives.

Themes

politics economics ethics

Mood

critical inquisitive

Type

analysis political

When to use this quote

  • tax law
  • government subsidies
  • financial bailouts
  • regulatory capture

Key Concepts

public policy regulation corporate power

Questions to Reflect On

  • Which policies seem beneficial but might conceal self‑interest?
  • How can citizens hold regulators accountable?
A Different Perspective

Not all regulation is harmful; some protect public welfare.

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